I've always been the "Let's see how the day goes" type. I used to think that waking up without a strict plan or schedule would make my day flexible and free, like I could just go with the flow and do what felt right at any moment, I could just take things as they came and let the day unfold naturally.
Sounds like a nice theory right?
I would start my day with no idea of what needed to be done because I hadn't planned anything properly. I kept pushing tasks aside, of course, "I'll get back to it later", but later never seemed to come. Instead, I get distracted, scrolling on my phone, seeing random videos or getting caught up in meaningless tasks that make me feel busy without actually accomplishing anything important. Before I knew it, the day was over, and I would be left wondering where all the time had gone.
Sometimes I look back at the end of the day and regret not having a plan. I start to think about the things I could have accomplished if I had planned my day. I could have used all the time wisely, and I could have been more productive and more at peace with myself if I had structured my day. It is one of the worst feelings, knowing I had an entire day at my disposal and yet did nothing worthwhile. The realization that if I had planned my day properly, I wouldn't be sitting somewhere, feeling like the day slipped through my fingers.
On the other hand, there is something about having a structured routine that just makes sense. knowing exactly what to do and when I need to do it gives me a sense of purpose. it's like having a clear guide that keeps me on track, without it, I'm just wandering, hoping to figure things along the way, which, let's be honest, I never do. When I wake up knowing tasks I need to take care of, I feel more in control instead of wasting time figuring it out or relying on motivation to get started, and then there's the peace that comes with it. I feel better when my day is planned. When my days are chaotic and unplanned, my mind feels the same way, uneasy and overwhelmed. I end up overthinking everything, feeling guilty and stressed about unfinished tasks.
Of course, this doesn't mean I didn't appreciate spontaneity, something is refreshing about having unplanned moments, about doing things just because you feel like it in the moment. and I still make space for it. I don't believe in planning every second of my day, whatever happened to unexpected events?
but I have learned the hard way that structured routine and spontaneity don't have to be opposites. a good routine can create space for spontaneity.
When I have handled my priorities, I can now enjoy a spontaneous moment without guilt. If a friend suddenly invites me out, I can say yes without worrying about all the things I still have to do, because I have already taken care of them. If I feel like taking a break to watch a movie or listen to music, I can do so without that nagging voice in my head telling me I should be working instead. And that's the beauty of structure, it doesn't take away my freedom, it gives me more of it.
I used to think that having a routine meant being stuck in a rigid schedule with no room to breathe. But I have come to realize that having a routine isn't about restricting myself, it is about freeing myself from the constant worry of what to do next and focusing on things that truly matter.
I have tried the idea of going with the flow and having a structured routine. And let me tell you, having a routine wins every single time. So yeah, I highly recommend having a routine, not because it makes life strict, but because it makes life better, keeps me on track, helps me enjoy my free time, and most importantly, I can go to bed feeling good about my day, instead of regretting all the time I wasted. And honestly? that's the best feeling ever.
Credits
cover image from freepik
